A sharp knife isn’t just safer—it’s more capable. Whether you’re slicing rope, cutting cord, or just opening boxes, keeping your pocket knife sharp ensures precision and control with every use. Here’s a quick guide to keeping your Taylor Stitch Drop Point Knife in top form.
Start with the Right Tools
A quality whetstone or diamond stone is ideal for maintaining your knife’s edge. Coarse grit (150–400) reshapes a dull edge, while fine grit (800–1000+) refines it for a razor finish. If you’re just touching up, a ceramic honing rod or leather strop will do the trick.
Find Your Angle
Most pocket knives are sharpened between 15°–20° per side. Keep the blade consistent against the stone—sharpening one side until you feel a slight burr (a fine, raised edge) before flipping to the other side.
Work in Smooth Strokes
Draw the blade across the stone as if you’re slicing a thin layer from its surface. Steady, even passes will maintain a clean bevel and prevent uneven wear. A few alternating strokes on each side will finish the job.
Finish and Maintain
Wipe your knife clean and lightly oil the blade to prevent corrosion. Regular honing between sharpenings will help preserve your edge longer, meaning fewer full sharpenings down the line.
Note: Every Taylor Stitch Drop Point Knife is built for cutting, not prying or striking. Always sharpen carefully, and avoid using power tools that can overheat or warp the blade.